Gazette
October, 2010
Priceless
Southern Calvert Everything Solomons, Lusby, Dowell, and St. Leonard
Cliff Homeowners Running Out of Time
Page 12
Drugs In Calvert County The Changing Face of Youth Drug Abuse – Special Report on Pg. 4 - 5 Photo by Sean Rice
On T he Cover
Lidia and Dave Ector stand on their deck over looking the cliffs in Chesapeake Ranch Estates. The deck was declared partially unsafe as the eroding cliff side inches closer to their house. The government is preventing the couple from using their own money to reinforce the cliff.
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Also Inside
Local News
8 Community 10 Letters 12
Cover Story
local news
Bob Ehrlich, right, former governor who is now challenging Gov. Martin O’Malley to regain his post lost in 2006, slammed the O’Malley administration and other Democrats for what he said where their failures to seal the Calvert Cliffs nuclear expansion deal. SEE PAGE 6
14 Sports 15 Locals 16 Obituaries 18
Business Directory
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Out & About
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On Water
Dave “Spiggy” Spigler and Jim “Rockin’ Elvis” Godbold get together during the Spiggy & Friends 17th Annual Children’s Charity Benefit held Sunday at the Lusby American Legion Post 274. SEE PAGE 15
22 Hunting 23 Entertainment
out & about
community
FOR EVENTS HAPPENING IN YOUR AREA, CHECK PAGE 20 IN OUT AND ABOUT
Spiderman and Wolverine discuss the most effective methods of fighting crime and eradicating evil during the annual Harvest Festival held in a field between Appeal Elementary and Patuxent Elementary schools. SEE PAGE 8
Single?
October 29 - 31 2010 Island s n o Solom eport Tide R
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F 29 Low 2:12 AM 0.4 7:29 AM Set 1:27 PM 29 High 7:07 AM 1.1 6:10 PM Rise 11:50 PM 29 Low 12:51 PM 0.2 29 High 7:45 PM 1.7
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Sa 30 Low 3:03 AM 0.4 7:30 AM 30 High 8:09 AM 1.2 6:09 PM 30 Low 2:04 PM 0.2 30 High 8:44 PM 1.7
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Su 31 Low 3:52 AM 0.3 7:31 AM Rise 1:00 AM 31 High 9:14 AM 1.3 6:08 PM Set 2:38 PM 31 Low 3:23 PM 0.3 31 High 9:43 PM 1.6
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November 5 - 7 2010 Day
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High Tide Height Sunrise Moon Time /Low Time Feet Sunset Visibl
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F 5 High 1:16 AM 1.3 7:36 AM Rise 6:58 AM 5 Low 7:25 AM 0.0 6:02 PM Set 5:25 PM 5 High 2:11 PM 1.9 5 Low 9:08 PM 0.2
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Senate Candidates Face Off on Taxes
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LOCAL NEWS
en. Roy Dyson, the District 29 incumbent, and GOP challenger Steven Waugh traded barbs Monday night over taxes recorded votes in the senate from 2007, including that at a candidate forum in LeonardDyson had voted for the so-called “millionaires tax” town, with Waugh claiming that four times before voting against it finally. Dyson flip-flopped on critical That tax also passed in 2007. tax increase votes in 2007 dur“Look at the record,” Dyson retorted. “I did not ing a special legislative session, vote for those tax increases, I did not do it at all.” while Dyson defended his record Dyson said that the votes Waugh claimed were not as being a fiscally conservative taken because it would have taken more days than were Democrat. allowed in the entire session, though all 21 of the votes Waugh, who lives in Calfor various amendments are recorded on the Maryland vert County, told the audience at state legislature’s Web site. Leonardtown High School that “It just didn’t happen,” Dyson said. Dyson had voted for legislation In a subsequent interview Waugh said that Dyson’s that eventually raised sales, revotes prior to the final vote was tantamount to Dyson cordation and corporate taxes helping the tax increase bill along. starting in 2008, 21 separate “If you’re voting with the sponsor you’re voting to times in committees before fidefend and pass that bill,” Waugh said. nally casting a no vote to the tax Dyson retorted in a Wednesday interview that all increases. the votes prior to the final ballots on the sales tax inThe legislation was the crease and then the “millionaire’s tax” increase were product of the emergency sesprocedural in nature and that only the final vote on eision of the state House and Senther counted in a legal sense. ate in 2007 to come to grips with “There’s only one vote that counts and that’s the the state’s revenue shortfall, and one that creates the law,” Dyson told The County Times. has been criticized with actually “The truth of the matter is, I didn’t vote for it. reducing sales tax revenues to “All this other stuff is just to muddle things up.” the state despite the increase in the rate of 5 percent to 6 percent. guyleonard@countytimes.net Waugh argued that despite Dyson’s final vote in 2007 against the tax increases, that Photo by Frank Marquardt the incumbent senator continu- Steve Waugh, left, and Roy Dyson ally supported the legislation coming up for the vote that eventually led to its passage. Waugh said that taxes continued to burden businesses locally and that the increased costs, including a 400 percent increase in unemployment insurance legislated by the state in the 2010 session in Annapolis, forced them to shed jobs and even consider relocating to more business-friendly states. “We have to make the state competitive and the only way to do that is to cut taxes,” Waugh said. Dyson told the audience that he would not vote for new tax increases and had never done so in Gary Simpson his political career. Katie Facchina “I’m not going to vote for 7480 Crain Highway any tax increases, I never have La Plata, MD 20646 and I never will,” Dyson said. 301-934-8437 Dyson said that the county got an extra $1.6 million last year for programs, and that amount would probably be cut in the next April Hancock budget cycle as an example of the PO Box 407 An Independent Agent Representing: ERIE INSURANCE GROUP trimming that would continue Standing: Dan Burris, Jake Kuntz, Seated: Lisa Squires, Bryans Road, MD 20616 from actions in Annapolis. Susan Ennis, Donna Burris 301-743-9000 “That’s the kinds of cuts we’re going to have to face in the future,” Dyson said. “I don’t see enough of a mood there to inAuto - Home - Business - Life crease any kinds of taxes.” Leonardtown & LaPlata • Bus: (301) 475-3151 It was after these claims that www.danburris.com Waugh rebutted Dyson with his
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Thursday, October-2010
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LOCAL P NEWS
The Changing Face of Drug Use in Calvert
D.A.R.E. recommends parents become SAFE when it comes to Rx and OTC medications in the home. S – store prescription and OTC medications in a safe place A – awareness. Know what medication are in the home and keep an inventory of the number of pills in the bottle. F – follow directions of the doctor and pharmacist. And lead your children by example and don’t misuse medications such as taking Tylenol PM just to be able to sleep.
rescription and over the counter drug (OTC) abuse has reached “epidemic” proportions and heroin use has returned to Calvert County, according to community leaders at a Calvert Alliance Against Substance Abuse (CAASA) sponsored community forum last week at Huntington High School. “In the last four years the request for treatment has increased by 368 percent. The statewide average in the same four years increased 103 percent,” said John Mitchell, Director of Calvert Substance Abuse Services, the largest drug treatment program offered in the county. The community forum aimed to educate parents and teens about the national rise in prescription and OTC drug abuse in teens ages 12 to 17. These legal medications are now the second leading drug of choice behind marijuana. “Teens are turning away from street drugs and using prescription medications to get high. New users of prescription medications has caught up with new users of marijuana,” said Larry Titus, Calvert County Public School Community Resource and
Safety Specialist and former CCPS Police Liaison Officer. Calvert County State’s Attorney Laura L. Martin agrees, “We’ve had a tremendous rise in prescription pill cases, and along with that came a corresponding jump in heroine cases. In fact prescription pill and heroin use has eclipsed cocaine as the drug of choice among our young people.” Martin and others on the speaker’s panel state teens are turning to legal drugs because they have a false sense of security about the safety of medications prescribed by a doctor or are available for over the counter use. However, experts say many of these kids don’t take into account the same factors doctors consider before recommending these medications. Physicians factor in weight, height, sex, age, medical condition, proper dosage and other prescriptions the patient is taking. Calvert Memorial Hospital Pharmacist Kara Harrer, who has worked with emergency room doctors when drug overdoses come in, said that many people don’t realize the danger of drug interactions, especially with medications containing alcohol and Tylenol.
E – educate. Teach your children the responsible way to use medication and the dangers of abusing them or giving them to their friends. Some of the panel included Lt. Randy Stephens, left, commander of Maryland State Police, Barrack “U,” Sheriff Mike Evans, Kelly Small, Department of Social Services, Donna Millar, Department of Juvenile Justice, Kara Harrer, Calvert Memorial Hospital, and Beverly Dillon, Chesapeake Pharmacy.
She compared wine alcohol content of 15 to 20 proof and rum alcohol content of 40 to 50 proof with Listerine of 52 proof and Contact Severe Cold 50 proof. Likewise, Tylenol is an ingredient in over 200 prescription and OTC drugs. An allowable adult dose of Tylenol is 3,000 to 4,000 milligrams per day. A dose of two to three times that amount can lead to liver failure, coma or death within 96 hours. “Tylenol toxicity is one of the leading causes of accidental overdose visits to the emergency room. It causes over 100 deaths annually,” said Harrer. In fact, Calvert Memorial had one such case while she was working. A teen was taking her parents’ Percocet and Tylenol over a period of time.
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Thursday, October-2010
Her parents brought her to the ER hoping to find out what was wrong with her. Instead of taking her home, their daughter was sent to University of Maryland Shock Trauma Center because her liver failed. She died. Experts say prescription and OTC drug abuse doesn’t discriminate between its victims. Shelly Seay knows this from personal experience. She opened the forum talking about being a mother to a child addicted to legal medications. Bryan Seay was an honor student, athlete and earned a scholarship to college. His parents were active in his life, school and sports, but that didn’t stop Bryan from turning to drugs. When Shelly discovered he was taking drugs, she’d go through his room and get rid of them, to no avail. On Dec. 3, 2009, Bryan and two others kicked in the door of a private residence and held their victims at gun point to steal six bottles of prescription pills. He was arrested and sentenced to 15 months in a state corrections center. Erin Anthony told her personal story of alcohol and prescription drug abuse which she managed to keep hidden throughout four years of college, three at St. Mary’s College and one at a pharmacy school. In August 2009, she was caught stealing Oxycodone from her employer Whitesell Pharmacy in Lusby, Maryland. She is currently serving a 12 month sentence in the Calvert County Detention Center. Both Calvert County Sheriff candidates indicated the driving factor behind the increase in break-ins and robberies within the county correlates to the rise in prescription drug abuse where a single Oxycodone pill has a street value of $60. When abusers can no longer afford the prescription drugs, they turn to its cheaper alternative, heroin However, according to Calvert County Sheriff’s Department in a joint presentation with the Maryland State Police Prince Frederick Barrack, 56 percent of teens are receiving these medications “free from others.” In other words, young people are raiding family drug cabinets of unused medications and giving them away to one another. State’s Attorney Martin told the audience that felony distribution charges are not limited to selling drugs. Students caught giving one pill to a friend in school or at a party can potentially receive the maximum of 20 years in state corrections. Sgt. Mike Bomgardner, Calvert County D.A.R.E. Officer, said parents should treat prescription and OTC drugs like alcohol, even going so far as it keep them under lock and key. In fact, a product called MedSafe has agreed to partner with Calvert County Sheriff’s office and CAASA to discount their $90 safe down to $44.95 plus shipping and handling. Contact the Sheriff’s department for the discount code. Less than one hundred people came to the first prescription drug abuse forum sponsored by CAASA, to the disappointment of the speaker panel, who urged those in attendance to help get the word out about the growing problem in the county. By Corrin M. Howe (SCG) info@somdpublishing.net
LOCAL NEWS
Drugs Showing Up in Water Supply
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f you are convinced that you need to clean out your medicine cabinet, DO NOT dump them down your sink, toilet or even toss them in your trash can. Although this is how many grew up disposing of medication, it is no longer considered safe for the environment. A study by the United States Geological Survey done in 1999 showed that 80 percent of the steams contained detectable levels of compounds found in common medications. Furthermore, septic tank professionals also note that antibiotics and other medications in a septic system can destroy beneficial bacteria necessary for the system to operate. Check your local pharmacy to see if they have a “bring back” or “disposal” program. In the case of Chesapeake Beach’s Chesapeake Pharmacy any prescription and OTC medication brought to them is sent off to an organization which incinerates unused medication to keep it from ending up in the drinking water. The Calvert County Sheriff’s office on
Church Street in Prince Frederick has an old Post Office mailbox anchored out front. People can dispose of their unwanted medications there. Sheriff Mike Evan’s said 150 pounds of legal and illegal drugs have been deposited since the box went up at the end of January 2010. If either of these options is too difficult, SmartRxdisposal.com recommends these steps: • Pour medication into a sealable plastic bag. If medication is a solid (pill, liquid capsule, etc.), add water to dissolve it. • Add kitty litter, sawdust, coffee grounds (or any material that mixes with the medication and makes it less appealing for pets and children to eat) to the plastic bag. • Seal the plastic bag and put it in the trash. SmartRxdispoal.com is an organization created by U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service along with American Pharmacist Association and the Pharmaceutical Research and Manufacturers of America.
Thursday, October-2010
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LOCAL NEWS M
aryland state and federal officials want the partners in the troubled UniStar partnership – Constellation Energy and the Frenchowned Electricite de France (EDF) – to work out an arrangement that would allow both to continue seeking federal loan guarantees to build a third nuclear reactor at Calvert Cliffs Nuclear Power Plant in Lusby. Constellation Energy announced more than a week ago that it was pulling out of the process to secure the federal loan guarantees from the Department of Energy (DOE) because the federal government was asking for as much as $880 million from Constellation to buy the loan backing. Constellation officials said publicly that the high costs of the loan backing would kill the economic viability of the project. Both sides of the political isle have, during a tense election season, adopted the plant deal as a political poker chip, with opposition GOP leaders excoriating Democratic leadership for not working hard enough to make the deal a reality. Both sides have agreed on the potential economic losses if the project falls through, 400 permanent jobs in Calvert County as well as up to 4,000 temporary construction jobs in both Calvert and St. Mary’s counties plus solutions to Maryland’s long term pro-
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Officials Plead with UniStar Partners to Resurrect Nuclear Deal
O’Malley administration and other Demo- actor deal) and he didn’t do too well.” jected energy shortages. In a letter to the chief ex- crats for what he said where their failures to O’Malley said that if elected, he would ecutives of both companies, seal the reactor deal. continually lobby the federal government to “This incredibly important project is revive the deal. House Majority Steny Hoyer (D-Md 5th), Gov. Martin O’Malley and both U.S. Sena- now on hold,” said Ehrlich at a small busi“Browbeating is part of the job detors from Maryland Barbara Mikulski and ness roundtable in Solomons Friday. “Gov. scription,” Ehrlich said. Ben Cardin, stated that claims that the costs O’Malley had his chance last week (in lobof the loan backing were overblown and bying the Obama Administration on the reguyleonard@countytimes.net have led to perceptions that the deal has already failed. “We find such perception to be deeply troubling as it is incorrect and confusing to the public,” the letter stated. “In fact, neither corporate partner in UniStar nor the Administration has withdrawn the loan guarantee application. Maryland statehouse Minority Leader Anthony O’Donnell, whose district resides mainly in Calvert County, has said that the deal is “on life support, but it has a faint pulse.” Bob Ehrlich, former GOP governor who is now challenging O’Malley Photo by Frank Marquart to regain his post lost From left are Republicans Thomas McKay, candidate for St. Mary’s County Commissioner President, Calvert County Commisin 2006, slammed the sioner Jerry Clark, Delegate Tony O’Donnell, former Maryland Gov. Bob Ehrlich and Charles Lollar, candidate for U.S. House
Thursday, October-2010
of Representatives.
Calvert Tea Party Rally Draws Crowd
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he crowd gathered in Prince Frederick Shopping Center Saturday just before noon, listening to what sounded like Frank Sinatra’s velvety voice singing “New York, New York.” However a closer listen to the words has “This socialist nightmare will come to an end. We’ll vote them out in 2010.” and “Pelosi blues melting away.” More than 100 county citizens came to the Now or Never MD rally sponsored by Americans for Prosperity (AFP) Maryland. The event was in a small shopping mall with
trict 31 said under the George W. Bush administration, “Republicans showed left to their own devises can be as bad as Democrats. We need to hold accountable every one elected to represent us.” While AFP Maryland Director Dave Schwartz began the meeting stating that the current administration “bailed out Wall Street but forgot about us here on Main Street.” National AFP Policy Director Phil Kerpen, seen on Fox Business News, and Ron Miller, local resident, conservative
LOCAL NEWS
At right, Ron Miller speaks to an audience of about 100 at Prince Frederick Shopping Center on Saturday, Oct. 23. It was the second stop for the day for the American’s for Prosperity bus tour.
limited parking. Throughout the 60-minute presentation, a number of cars drove up and down aisles before finally giving up and leaving. Event speakers throughout claim Americans for Prosperity (better known as “The Tea Party Movement”) claim to attract the average citizen or the “the silent majority.” Saturday’s audience did range in age from late teens/early twenties to senior citizens, representing at least three different races – white, black and Indian with people dressed in baseball caps, t-shirts and jeans or full business attire. The group states it is non-partisan, “grassroots organization committed to advancing every individual’s right to economic freedom. We believe that the size and scope of Government has grown to an unmanageable level and is stifling the prospect of individual prosperity.” Maryland Delegate Steve Shuh from Dis-
writer and commentator and director of Regular Folks United were also speakers at the event. Schwartz reminded the audience that there were only a few more days until the election and called upon them to get involved by educating friends and neighbors about the issues and urging citizens to get out and vote. The rally organizers invited local candidates for U.S. Congress to speak, but only Charles Lollar accepted, despite it being his wedding anniversary. Although not asked to speak, other local political candidates in the audience included Maryland Delegate Anthony “Tony” O’Donnell, and Steve Waugh and Mark Fischer for Maryland Senate. By Corrin M. Howe (SCG) info@somdpublishing.net
http://www.dnr.state.md.us/forests/fire/firewise.asp www.firewise.org
Ting c e T o r p T u T…. re abo c o a m T n n r o a c e , l s e o r T wildfi m o r f e m o your h
410-287-5777
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Thursday, October-2010
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Appeal Elementary and Patuxent Elementary schools held their annual Harvest Fest last weekend in the shared field between the schools. The event was free for students, parents and their guests. Children came in costume and participated in various activities. Games included a cakewalk, pin the nose on the pumpkin and a ring toss. There was food available in the cafeteria, as well as a bake sale, and a Scholastic Book Fair in the Library of Appeal Elementary. Parents and PTA members volunteered their time to help run the festival. The fair is run with a budget of $750, so donations are always welcome, said Sonya Deguzman, a committee member of the PTA.
St. Mary’s Hospital
EMERGENCY DEPARTMENT
What others promise, we deliver. 8
Thursday, October-2010
Young People Raising Money By Nick Garrett
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his issue I wanted to take a break from politics because I figured with the all of the signs and campaigning going on, that you may appreciate something a little different. In this column, I would like to recognize several hundred spectacular teenagers that are impacting our community in a number of positive ways. We often see pictures of people with an oversized check in one hand and an award in the other, when companies or individuals step up and donate to a non-profit or community organization in need of funds. Chances are you have never seen a photo-op of the kids who organize concerts at All Saints Church. But since the series started in 2004, they have raised almost $30,000.00 for organizations all over the world and in our community including Doctors Without Borders, St. Jude’s “Believe in Tomorrow House,” Calvert County Public Schools, The American Cancer Society, The Turnabout Café’s Job Development Program, End Hunger in Calvert, and Safe Harbor, to name only a few. One of the
first was a rock concert that raised $5,000 for victims of Hurricane Katrina. I first began organizing concerts in the county to give music students and local bands a concert venue. In order to raise awareness, we decided to make the concerts fundraisers for whatever community group needed help at the time. This way, the teens would begin understanding the value of volunteerism and have an opportunity to earn service hours for school. Initially, there was little public praise for the self-motivated ingenuity and fundraising success these teens experienced. That was until one week in 2005 when I happened to pick up the newspaper and saw the standard photo op picture described above, with a $1,000 contribution for Katrina victims from a local corporation. After sending a well-intentioned nasty gram, praise began to pour in for the teens and bands as the community learned what the kids had been up to with these concerts. Ken Phelps, the rector at All Saints Episcopal Church in Sunderland and I thought it would be best if we established a committee that allowed a group of teens to take part in organizing the events. This proved to be a good idea and the events continued to flourish. Fast forward to 2010, and we have a six-year long series of successful concerts that has brought much needed assistance to those in need. Garrett Music Academy students Pierce Jordan, Max Robinson, Bobby Morrison, along with their friend Angelo Todaro, approached me saying that they wanted more opportunities to play music since there is no performing arts center in the county for bands and musicians. Until then, they had been organizing house parties featuring bands from up and down the east coast. I was impressed with their initiative, knowledge of the history of the fundraising program, and their desire
Nick Garrett works with a group of teens to organize benefit concerts. Here they are shown giving a donation to Easter Seals following one of their local shows.
Calvert Library Foundation Holding Fund Raising Drives
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he Calvert Library Foundation, a nonprofit 501(c)3, has several ongoing fundraisers to provide support for the Calvert Library and the work they do. A customer favorite is the brick fundraiser. For a donation of $100, individuals can craft a message to be engraved on a brick to be installed on the library patio. This makes a wonderful, lasting gift in someone’s honor or memory. While it does require some patience before the bricks appear in the patio (an order is placed once a year and then installation occurs as county staff has time), customers can request certificates to let their honoree know what is coming. The next order for engraving will be placed at the beginning of January so now is a good time to get your donation in. If you are looking to make a larger donation, consider the Giving Tree. For $250 to $2500, you can have your business or family included on the Giving Tree as an engraved leaf, acorn, foundation stone, or mini-tree. This beautiful tree is featured prominently on the wall that hundreds of people will pass every day as they enter the library. The Foundation uses the funds it raises to provide extra services and items that the library budget cannot. Recent fundraising has supported the purchase of a number of gaming console games for customers to check out. They pay the annual subscription fee of the Foundation Center database which provides library customers access to profiles of more than 91,000 U.S. grantmakers. They recently purchased an appliance that has increased the internet capacity for the library branches. Currently, the Foundation is fundraising for Imagination Stations for each library location which will have various educational tools and books to promote active learning and imaginative play for preschoolers. Support Calvert Library; buy a brick! For more information, call the Calvert Library Prince Frederick at 410-535-0291 or 301-855-1862.
to usher in another phase of impact on the community. Ken Phelps and long time event partners and volunteers Steve Watson, and Dennis Laurie, parishioners at All Saints agreed that allowing another committee to begin organizing the regular fundraisers would not only give more groups somewhere to play but would give them a vested interest in their community. Not only did they deliver on last Friday’s concert, by booking touring acts from as far away as New Jersey and Philadelphia, such as “Bubblegum Octopus” but they hosted a “house party” to raise separate money to pay the bands so that all of the event money could go toward the Adult Day Care. Upwards of 250 people gathered for a rock concert in the Parrish Hall of All Saints’ Church and raised $500 toward The Adult Day Care’s initiative to fundraise matching funds for a state MTA grant that would get a new wheelchair lift van for the organization. For a $5 cover charge, the teens enjoyed six of their favorite local bands. Over the years, many national touring acts have come through as well. In a time when role models are sparse and young people have to bear the mental weight of the world at a younger and younger age, it is rewarding and comforting to know that when their time comes, young people in Calvert County continue to be civic minded and look after their community. Not to mention how important it is to have a regular venue for musical performances in the county. Nick Garrett is the owner of The Garrett Music Academy in Owings, published author, and has served and continues to serve on various boards and commissions in Calvert County.
Evan Slaughenhoupt for CALVERT COUNTY COMMISSIONER
“As a past member of the County Ethics Commission and past member of the County Ethics Commission and past president of DACCA, Evan understands how a strong local economy, low taxes and a transparent government are the building block to preserving and protecting our quality of life. We are fortunate to have such a well informed and qualified candidate running for County Commissioner.” - George Owens, Dunkirk, MD
“I believe in fiscal prudence and transparency are the foundation of good government.”
Evan on the Issues • I support reducing the constant yield. • I support reducing taxes. • I support reducing spending. • I will enhance the County ethics code. • I support improving the education formula funding. • I support 2nd Amendment rights. Auth: citizens to Elect Evan Slaughenhoupt; Gregory Kernan, Treas.
www.evanslaughenhoupt.com
Thursday, October-2010
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Editor
Have Voters Done Their Homework?
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TER T E to the
Roy Dyson Is Not A Conservative
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was surprised to see in the latest National Rifle Association magazine an endorsement of the incumbent Democrat from Maryland Senate District 29. I question where his real heart is on issues of gun rights. Does he really believe in the 2nd Amendment, or does Roy Dyson vote to maintain appearances in a conservative district with the knowledge that the up-state liberals will control the agenda, cover his vote, and drive gun rights issues in the wrong direction regardless of how he votes? Let’s not forget this is the same Roy Dyson that voted to increase your taxes in the Special Session of November 2007. Roy Dyson is not a conservative. When they really need his vote
in Annapolis to raise taxes, or increase spending, he’s the guy Mike Miller and Martin O’Malley can always depend on. Let’s send a real conservative to Annapolis. Vote for Steve Waugh to represent us in Maryland Senator District 29. He will work to cut your taxes, cut spending, and create jobs in southern Maryland. We also need to give Steve a chance to convert his current NRA rating of “AQ” (Pro-Gun Candidate) to “A+” (Excellent 2nd Amendment Defender) with Endorsement. Oh by the way, our local Maryland District 29C Delegate, Tony O’Donnell, has an A+ Endorsement from the NRA. Donald R. Statter, Jr. Lusby, MD
oters will be going to the polls very soon but have they done their homework? From what I read and see I don’t believe most of them have. When it comes to the Governor’s race, I keep reading and hearing how the former governor ran Maryland into the ground. When did the Maryland Legislature become a Republican majority? The budget is set by the legislature and cuts and increases come from those elected officials. Democrats have controlled the House and Senate since 1898. So you can’t blame the Governor. When Ehrlich left office in 2006 , Maryland ranked 24th in state business tax climate and now ranks 45th. Maryland also ranked 11th in best state to do business with in 2006 and now ranks 27th. Remember in 2007 the recall of the legislature back into session to pass tax legislation? Let’s take a look at Steny Hoyer. He backs President Obama’s administration so he voted for Health Care Bill which many Marylanders didn’t want. Look at his town hall meetings that didn’t include his constituents. Lobbyists paid him over $279 million for his services. Look at his voting record. Take a look at Senator Mikulski. What has she done for you? Yes, she voted against the flag amendment so anyone can destroy the American flag without penalty and spent hard earned tax dollars traveling overseas for you. If we take a look at the candidates running for delegate, we will find an O’Malley spokesperson who is all for the Health Care Bill and all the other things that the Governor has asked for Marylanders so you can pay higher taxes to pay for them.
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And we also have another O’Malley supporter who runs his campaign as he see fit, doesn’t seem to know what the answers are to questions asked and wants to increase police and teacher’s pay. Guess he doesn’t know the Sheriff’s deputies are on the same pay scale as the Maryland State Police. But he wants to cut taxes and I think he needs to check with O’Malley on that. And then we have 13 candidates for County Commissioner. This is quite an interesting group. We have a whiner and complainer who voted against the Chesapeake Hills purchase that could have fallen into developer hands and over 300 more homes could have been built. Another choice is a supporter of the President who wants to see more stimulus and more low income housing with no idea where the money will come from except yours and my pocket. Then we have those who feel wronged by the county so we run for commissioner. We also have a choice in someone who likes to run around his yard in the nude even though his neighbors can see him and is interested in training all the county personnel and elected officials in ethics. Then we look at a candidate who introduces himself at a forum to discuss his vasectomy and wants sewers in his minor town center so more business and homes can be built, although the master plan does not call for it nor is there money. What is left is Republican, Democrat, Independent and other. To find out where the candidates stand there is vote411.org that gives voters an insight into their answers to specific questions. It’s time to do your homework knowing that your vote will last another 4 years.
‘The Rest of the Story’
e continue to see “glowing” endorsements of Steny Hoyer by “high profile” supporters, some from out of state, regarding how Hoyer is the “Savior” to PAX/Indian Head and jobs. However, Hoyer’s Endorsements never seem to give you the “Rest of the Story” in that Steny Hoyer has supported the following radical, progressive agenda of Obama, Reid, and Pelosi that is taking this Country is the wrong direction. • Out of control government spending with $13 trillion debt and continuing deficits. • Redistribution of wealth, and a spiral toward European style socialism. • Bailouts of the corrupt, greedy, and inept at taxpayers’ expense – you and me. • Failed stimulus that has not created private sector jobs with continued 9.6% unemployment • Cash for Clunkers – at others expense.
Thursday, October-2010
Margit Miller Solomons, MD
• Radical healthcare reform that the majority of Americans did not want. • Backroom political deals, and 2,000 page bills not read. • Cap & Trade that will in Obama’s words “necessarily cause energy prices to sky rocket.” • Not enough action to secure our borders and stop illegal immigration. • Diminishing support for Israel. • Lack of resolve to stop Iran from getting the “bomb”. • Failure to take action on tax increases (Bush Tax Cuts) before the election. And the list goes on, and on. And again, again, again, BRAC decisions on PAX/Indian Head and the many jobs were independent, not political. Hoyer’s endorsers exaggerate his role in BRACs, and this is about more than one issue. Retire Steny Hoyer, Vote Charles Lollar. Joe Wible Sr. Leonardtown, MD
control, and if we are going to spend more money, it should be spending that works efficiently and effectively. He even voted against tuition freezes, she says! What they actually did was jack up the fees for room and board instead of the tuition which remained frozen. Additionally, the tuition freeze actually made it harder for a Maryland kid to get into a Maryland University because the system started accepting more out of state residents who pay higher premiums to come to our universities. The system hired over 2000 new employees over this period. This also short changed community colleges. Even O’Malley knows this is not sustainable. At least Ehrlich was honest with us about it. This diatribe goes on and on in some of these letters. I was a leader in getting help to clean up waste water treatment plants, failing septic systems, oyster replenishment, and a leader to pass a bill to get liquid mercury out of waterways. Yet my critics say I voted against the environment. Not so, I just voted for more common sense environmental solutions. I am honored to represent the citizens of District 29-C. I believe spending is out of control and government growth is threatening our well being today and our children and grand children’s future. This places all our priorities at risk. Rest assured you will hear some more outlandish attacks and criticisms over the next two weeks. Next they will probably try to say I am a big spender. Please consider the source and remember they call this the “silly season” for a reason. Del. Tony O’Donnell (R-29C) Minority Leader, MD House of Delegates
American Red Cross Needs Your Help
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he American Red Cross is in communities nationwide, providing federal workers and their families with the ability to prepare for, and respond to emergencies large and small. Whether it’s helping people respond to disasters, providing safe blood for patients in need, training people in critical lifesaving skills that allow them to act in emergencies, or providing people with the ability to reach out with emergency communication to military personnel in urgent situations, the Red Cross empowers people to perform extraordinary acts in the face of emergencies. The Red Cross has a long, celebrated partnership with federal agencies. We work side-by-side with the Department of Homeland Security to provide people with the help they need following disaster. We give donors the ability to show they care by providing convenient blood donation opportuni-
ties at blood drives. We provide Red Cross Health and Safety training to employees of government agencies, such as the Federal Aviation Administration, giving them the lifesaving skills they need to use if called upon. While we work hand in hand with our government partners, the Red Cross is not a government agency - we rely on the compassion, generosity and trust of people like you to give us the ability to do these extraordinary things in your community. You can elect to support the Southern Maryland Chapter American Red Cross (#10266) with your financial gift to the Combined Federal Campaign. Or, you may contact the local Red Cross chapter to make a donation locally. Either way, your donation will help make an impact in many lives. Mike Zabko, CEO Southern Maryland American Red Cross
Chapter
TER T E to the Editor
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here is a reason they call the weeks leading up to an election the “silly season”, when political campaigns unleash unfounded criticisms and half-truths to gain political advantage. People can see through such attacks. I try not to engage, but after seeing so much that is untrue or tells only half of the story, I need to respond. I have read recently that one lady who seems to unleash an attack on me every four years thinks that maybe I don’t even live here anymore. Other supporters of my opponents imply I don’t engage in community activities or fight for us in Annapolis. I would simply say that too many people in this district and Southern Maryland know better than to fall prey to such falsehoods. I have also seen several letters recently which imply I voted no against some bills. This is true. Again only part of the story is told in an attempt to deceive, and as commentator Paul Harvey used to say, now you are going to hear “the rest of the story”. I did vote against amendments to the Unemployment Trust Fund bill. But why, you might ask. Simple, because of these amendments small businesses have seen their unemployment surcharges double, triple or quadruple in just one year. For a small business barely hanging on in this economy, these extra thousands of dollars going to the government were deadly. Many have had to close their doors or lay off employees, making the unemployment problem worse not better. You bet I voted against these very harmful job-killing amendments. The writer goes on to say I voted against a bill to help people losing their homes. The bills passed and did no good and didn’t reduce the foreclosure rate at all, but they sure did increase spending. Spending is out of
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O’Donnell: Attacks Are Unwarranted
Pet Day Raised $20,000
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he Humane Society of Calvert County (HSCC), a nokill animal welfare organization, sponsored by the United Way of Calvert County, would like to thank everyone who participated in or sponsored our 8th Annual Pet Day 5K that was held in Solomons Island on Saturday September 18. We could not have asked for a better day, it was a sunny day with temperatures in the 70’s. Perfect weather for athletes! With 400 participants and over 100 dogs in attendance, HSCC raised over $20,000 which will directly benefit the animals in our care. We would also like to thank all of our dedicated volunteers
that allowed this event to happen. The Pet Day 5K would not have been as successful without the support of our friends in the community. We would like to thank our sponsors and donors that made this event possible. Thank you for your continuous support in helping HSCC continue our mission of saving animals in need. We are looking forward to the next Pet Day 5K - September 17, 2011! Kristy Anderson & Jody Shaver, HSCC Volunteers Pet Day 5K Coordinators Sunderland, MD
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Southern Calvert Gazette P. O. Box 250 . Hollywood, MD 20636
Southern Calvert Gazette is a bi-weekly newspaper providing news and information for the residents of Southern Calvert County. The Southern Calvert Gazette will be available on newsstands every other Thursday of the month. The paper is published by Southern Maryland Publishing Company, which is responsible for the form, content, and policies of the newspaper. Southern Calvert Gazette does not espouse any political belief or endorse any product or service in its news coverage. Articles and letters submitted for publication must be signed and may be edited for length or content. Southern Calvert Gazette is not responsible for any claims made by its advertisers.
Thursday, October-2010
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Cover On The
Time, Cliff Edge Running O
H
omeowners who live on the receding edge of Calvert Cliffs say that they hope the state will find some way to allow them to shore up their quickly eroding property lines before their homes fall into the Chesapeake Bay, or at least get some assistance in moving. But the speed with which the government can deliver on those options, or at all, may mean that homeowners will have to find another solution. Bill Carmichael, a homeowner on the cliff for nearly 20 years, has lost nearly all of his back yard. Now parts of his home are literally hanging over the edge; he’s already lost a hot tub deck over the side. “Now the patio is sticking out in the air,” Carmichel told The Southern Calvert Gazette. Since February he’s lost at least two feet more of his backyard, he said, and he has moved out of the home. But with the proximity to the cliff edge, he can’t sell the place or even rent it out on a long-term basis. Short-term renters are all he can manage, he said. “That’s all I can do,” Carmichael said. “I can’t sell the place.” House Minority Leader Anthony O’Donnell (R-Dist.29C) said that ideas to have the state step in and help are still on the table, but there have been no decisions yet. “They’re looking for assistance for the homeowners,” O’Donnell said. “Maybe to move the homes or get an easement.” But the worse case scenario if the state does nothing to help the residents — there are about 90 owners whose homes are in danger of falling over the cliff edge — could be catastrophic and more costly than providing help now, O’Donnell said. “It would be an environmental disaster,” he said. “It could lead to loss Lidia and Dave Ector stand on their deck over looking the cliffs in Chesapeake Ranch Estates. The deck was declared partially unsafe as th their house. At right, the cliff is shown getting closer to Bill Carmichael’s house. The edge is now eroded away underneath Carmichael’s conc of life and we have an obligation to prevent that if possible.”
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Thursday, October-2010
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For years residents on the Chesapeake Bay shore of Calvert Cliffs have sought ways to stop the steady erosion of the cliffs but have been stopped by both state and federal laws that protect the existence of the endangered puritan tiger beetle, which burrows into the cliff face for its home. But David Ector and Lidia Cucurull-Ector, who have just about six feet left of their back yard after recent heavy rains that caused whole chunks of the cliff to fall away, say that the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service has never actually designated an official habitat for the puritan tiger beetle, despite its being on the endangered species list. They claim that the service, in pushing state authorities to deny them and other homeowners permits to have engineering work done on the cliff face, has been done in violation of the law. “This is the big issue,” Ector said. “Maybe if someone dies they’ll pay attention.” Leopoldo Miranda, the field supervisor for the Chesapeake Bay office of the wildlife service, said that there has been no designation for habitat officially for the tiger beetle on the cliff but their mere presence coupled with the endangered species act trumps that official designation requirement. Moreover, he said, if the habitat were officially designated there, problems for landowners may only increase. “It would likely cover more [land] than what is covered now,” Miranda said. “Right now we’re dealing with areas were there actually are tiger beetles.” If the area was designated as habitat, he said, then any area suspected of having tiger beetles, whether they were there or not, would be restricted. The federal government would have to find a way to compensate homeowners, Miranda said, if the tiger beetle population were on the edge of extinction, something known as a “jeopardy opinion” that would require the government to essentially take all property rights away from land owners. “We’re not at that point yet and that’s what we’re trying to avoid,” Miranda said, who added that the service has been taken to court over whether they can control land with endangered species without designating specific habitat
around the country. “We’ve lost some cases but in others w The Ector’s back deck, which overloo been declared partially unsafe by Calvert video the owners shot of the cliff edge fall on regional media outlets. Cucurull -Ector, a program scientist and Atmospheric Administration, has qu conducted on the beetle’s numbers at Calv of the beetles numbers have not been ade doubts on just how few there really are, she Documents available on the regional Web site show that the Ector’s claims may One document shows that as far back not enact habitat for the endangered beet enthusiasts would use the information to tr it away from its cliff dwellings. “The service finds that designation o for these species at this time (1990)… tig beetle specimens are considered very val able to collectors,” the documents from t federal register read. “On balance, the thre of over-collection as a result of designation critical habitat would outweigh any benefit such designation.” Information such as this has left hom owners frustrated over the possibility of lo ing their property. “It’s just frustrating,” said Carmicha who had lived on the cliffs since 199 “Just dealing with the government, it’s ju ridiculous.” A report set to be released Oct. 26 by state task force on the issue was not availab as of press time and state officials with t Department of Natural Resources said th advance copies of the report would not ready until the presentation scheduled befo the Calvert County Board of Commissione Gerald Clark, president of the com missioner board, said he expected there
g Out For Lusby Homeowners
unsafe as the eroding cliff side inches closer to ichael’s concrete slab back porch.
providing some kind of options for hardening the cliff face to forestall erosion, but as far as the state stepping in to take on the entire expense of remediation efforts, that was not a likely conclusion. “Are they just going to give folks money to fix this? That would shock me,” Clark said Monday. “We’re in the process of trying to help these folks… anybody who lives there needs a remedy immediately.” The commissioner board signed off an a request from the Chesapeake Ranch Estates homeowners association earlier this year to the Federal Emergency Management Administration for grant money, but so far they’ve heard nothing from the national agency, Clark said. “The sad part is… there is no answer that will make these folks whole financially,” Clark said. By Guy Leonard (CT) info@somdpublishing.net
in others we’ve prevailed,” Miranda said. ich overlooks the eroding cliff edge, has y Calvert County zoning officials after a f edge falling away was widely reported
scientist at the National Oceanographic on, has questioned the scientific studies ers at Calvert Cliffs, saying that reports been adequately peer reviewed, casting lly are, she has claimed. e regional U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service aims may have merit. as far back as 20 years ago, officials did gered beetle because of fears that insect mation to track down the beetle and secret
ignation of critical habitat is not prudent 990)… tiger d very valunts from the ce, the threat esignation of ny benefit of
s left homebility of los-
Carmichael, since 1992. ment, it’s just
Oct. 26 by a not available ials with the ces said that would not be duled before mmissioners. of the comted there to
be some proposals in the report considering either moving the homes or
Thursday, October-2010
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Sp rts Hansen Believes Panthers Are Ready Playoffs
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ith his first 2 A South Regional playoff as head coach only days away, Patuxent High School boys soccer coach Brett Hansen isn’t focusing too much on who his team will play, but how they will play once the post-season begins. “At this point, we are not looking at nor worrying about who we will face, we believe that our team has the ability to play and win against any team we face,” he says. “We are not Hansen looking at or preparing for the first or second game of regionals but to win state. We are concentrating on playing, improving our game and taking it to the other team.” The Panthers (4-9-1 at the close of the regular season) have had a season of growth under a new coaching staff, but Hansen feels the playoffs present a chance to start fresh. “Varsity has had a rollercoaster season with injuries and changes. Our first expectation for the team was to put the regular season behind them and treat regionals as a new season; the team seems to be responding to that attitude,” he says. “We have had some good practices this last week and the team appears to be only looking forward.” The objective for Patuxent is of course to get a winning streak going in regionals that ends in the 2A state championship, to be played at the University of Baltimore County the weekend of November 20. “Our next goal is of course to win State; with any one-anddone format all you can concentrate on is winning, winning, winning – an undefeated season,” Hansen explained. The first chance at a win comes this Friday when the 11thseeded Panthers travel to Long Reach High School to play the sixth-seeded Lightning with a time yet to be determined as of press time. Hansen feels an important part of any success Patuxent will have is to keep playing regardless of circumstance. “A key for the PHS team with the one-and-done format is to not get down or lose composure if we get behind,” he said. “We have come back from some deficits this season and need to keep that in mind if it happens again – stick to our game, keep vision on the field, and do not let down.” Even with a rough start to the season, the coach also feels the future is bright due to the junior varsity’s success this season. “Our JV lost only 1 game and tied 1. Coach Randy Sapp has done very well with the JV and new players setting the foundation for the future of PHS Soccer,” Hansen said. “We all have room to improve and that includes myself as a new coach.” By Chris Stevens (CT) info@somdpublishing.net
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Thursday, October-2010
Panthers Finish Regular Season Unbeaten, Prepare For Playoffs
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he Patuxent High School field hockey team wrapped up another successful regular season on October 18, defeating Great Mills 3-0 to finish the regular season 14-0 and 12-0 in the Southern Maryland Athletic Conference, good enough for the Panthers’ fourth straight SMAC championship. “I’m happy we can enjoy it. We lost eight starters and there were some doubters out there,” head coach Lynn Powell said. “These girls pulled together and I’m proud of them. They can say ‘we did it.’” Patuxent took a while getting on the board against the Hornets, breaking through with 10:25 to go when Lydia Lorenson scored on a pass from Claire Ganoe. That same combination added another goal just about eight minutes later, and the Panthers were well on their way to remaining unbeaten. Ali Nolan added a goal with 2:39 left in the second half to give the Panthers their three goals on 19 shots. They also won the corner battle, totaling 14 to Great Mills’ two. The Panthers are the top seed in the MPSSAA Class 2A Southern Region playoffs and Powell believes a play day earlier in the season against some Anne Arundel teams, along with an 8-0 victory over North Point on September 14 gave her an idea of how good her girls could be. “That play day was an indicator and after we got the jitters out in the second game of the season, I said ‘We’ve got something special,’” she said. “We had sophomore step up and play like juniors and seniors.” Five seniors (Ganoe, goalkeeper Hope Fost, Taylor Courtnery, Jenna McGreevy and Catherine Madera) were honored before the last home game. For Ganoe, who played on varsity all four years (finishing with a 47-1 record in SMAC), the occasion was bittersweet. “It’s awesome to win, but it sucks to lave this team. This is my family,” Ganoe said. Patuxent will have home field advantage throughout the 2A South Playoffs, almost ensuring a collision with their regional nemesis Glenelg of Howard County in the regional championship game. The Gladiators represented the Southern region in the 2A State Semi-Finals last fall,
and Powell knows taking the crown from them will be a challenge “2A South is very difficult. Glenelg has a couple of girls on Olympic teams, so we’ll have to raise our level of play just to keep up,” she said. Ganoe feels that she and her teammates have what it
Powell
takes to get to the 2A state playoffs. “We’ve been to states before, so I think this is the year. Everybody’s head’s in it,” she said. “We will win.” By Chris Stevens (CT) info@somdpublishing.net
Jenna McGreevy of Patuxent moves the ball downfield during a 3-0 win over Great Mills.
Spiggy’s Annual Children’s Charity Benefit a Hit
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ast weekend was a busy one for Spiggy, aka Dave Spigler, the Redskins Hogette from Calvert County. His weekend, which included appearances at a birthday party and a fundraiser for the Children’s Hospital at Mechanicsville Moose Lodge, culminated in the 17th Annual Children’s Charity Benefit during the Washington Redskins game. The Children’s Charity benefit is always held during an away game for the Redskins, Spigler said, and the food and door prizes were donated. There was also a 50-50 raffle during halftime. Appearances at the event included Spiggy and other Hogettes and Redskins cheerleaders Ashley, Michelle, Myla and Marisa. Prized included a beer fridge and a TV. Papa Johns supplied the pizza. There was also a silent auction that included signed items and other Redskins memorabilia. “It’s a nice little event, but it’s not so little anymore,” said Eric Jessup, a Redskins fan who came down from Washington, D.C. for the fundraiser. “I love it, I come every year,” said. Scott Squires, another attendee at the fundraiser. Spigler’s family also gets involved in the event. “It’s fun and it’s nice to help out for a good cause,” said Richard Spigler, Spigler’s son. He said his wife Danielle makes some of the desserts served during the game.
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Debby Spigler, Spigler’s wife, enjoyed being at the event. “It’s a great day for the kids and everybody has a good time and helps the needy,” she said. Spigler joined the ranks of the Hogettes 18 years ago. The Hogettes are men who dress in women’s clothing and cheer for the Redskins. “We’re traditional cheerleaders,” Spiggy said. The Hogettes aren’t just cheerleaders though. They make appearances at Children’s Hospitals and other various fundraisers and help their community whenever possible. “Anything involved with the health of our kids and needy families, that’s what the Hogettes were formed for,” Spigler said. Chris Young, who was also at the Children’s Hospital fundraiser at the Moose Lodge in Mechanicsville, was happy to be at the game. He likes seeing a large gathering of Redskins fans. “I’d rather come to this than do my homework,” he said. At the end of the afternoon, the Redskins beat the Chicago Bears with a score of 17-14, making the event not only a win for the Annual Children’s Charity Benefit, but for the team as well. By Sarah Miller (CT) info@somdpublishing.net At left, Dave “Spiggy” Spigler and Jim “Rockin’ Elvis” Godbold get together during the Spiggy & Friends 17th Annual Children’s Charity Benefit held Sunday at the Lusby American Legion Post 274. Above, Spiggy holds one of his grandchildren. Below, Washington Redskins cheerleaders sign autographs.
Thursday, October-2010
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Peter Black, 60
County, P.O. Box 838, Prince Frederick, MD. 20678 and/or www.PanCan.org (Pancreatic Cancer Research). Arrangements provided by the Rausch Funeral Home,PA., 4405 Broomes Island Road, Port Republic, MD 20676.
Marvin Burkman, 64
Peter Gideon Taylor Black, 60, of Dowell, Md. died in Arlington, VA on October 11, 2010. He recently retired as a Senior Supervising Special Agent for the Inspector General’s Office after 20 years of government service. He was a Professor of Criminal Justice and taught at several universities including the University of Maryland and Johns Hopkins University. He served for 2o years with the United States Army, from which retired in 1990, having earned the rank of Chief Warrant Officer 3. He enjoyed dancing, singing, boating and reading. He is survived by his mother, Felicia Black; wife of 13 years, Trudy Black; son John Doyle; daughters, Christine Black and Lori and husband Chris Harmon; brothers, Phillip and wife Kathy; Andrew and David Black and grandchildren Patrick and Casey Harmon. His father, Richard Black and grandson, Matthew Harmon, predeceased him. A Celebration of Life was held on October 16, 2010 at Raymond-Wood Funeral Home. Interment is scheduled for Wednesday, January 19, 2011 at 11 am. at Arlington National Cemetery. (Guests are asked to arrive by 10:30 am.) Memorial contributions may be made to Safe Harbor, Inc., PO Box 801, Pr. Frederick, MD 20678. Arrangements provided by Raymond-Wood Funeral Home, Dunkirk.
John Branyan, 60 John Earl Branyan, 60 of St. Leonard, Maryland passed away peacefully at home on October 11, 2010. John was born on November 27, 1949 in Wood-
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bury, New Jersey to Harry Emerson Branyan and Jessie Stone Brewer. In 1969 John joined the United States Navy. While in the Navy he met Celeste who he married on July 2, 1972. John served his country till 1975, then he and Celeste moved to Calvert County, Maryland to raise a family. There they raised three children. John was a devoted husband and father who would love to go camping with his family. He would also like to take special trips with his two sons and go fly fishing. John was also a scout master for troop 407 based in Calvert County. In his spare time John would like to do genealogy and travel to renaissance festivals around the country. John was preceded in death by his loving wife Celeste Branyan, his mother Jessie S. Branyan, and his brother Harry E. Branyan. John is survived by father Harry E. Branyan, his three children, Eric G. Branyan and his wife Emily of Sterling, VA., Colin E. Branyan of Cockeysville, MD., and Jamie P. Lovecchio and her husband Joshua. He is also survived by his grandchildren Liam & Wesley Branyan and Anthony & Elaina Lovecchio. In addition to his children and grandchildren he is survived by his brothers and sister, Charles C. Branyan of Mantua, NJ., Kenneth R. Branyan of National Park, NJ., David B. Branyan of Westville Grove, NJ., and Ellen Disilvio of Clarksville, TN. The family received relatives and friends on Friday October 15th at the Rausch Funeral Home, PA Port Republic, MD. A Funeral Service was held on Saturday October 16th at 10 AM in the funeral home. Interment followed in the Chesapeake Highland Memorial Gardens, Port Republic, MD. Memorial Contributions made in John’s name may be made to Hospice of Calvert
Thursday, October-2010
Marvin William (Bill) Burkman, 64, of Lusby, Maryland, formerly of Port Republic, Maryland, passed away on Saturday, October 16, 2010. Born on September 9, 1946, to the late Mildred Stinnett Burkman and the late Henry L. Burkman, Bill was a life-long resident of Calvert County. He was raised on the Burkman family farm in Port Republic where he worked in the tobacco fields with his father, grandfather, and brothers. He loved to hunt on the farm as a young man. The fall was a special time of year for him and he looked forward to coming home after school and going hunting for rabbits, squirrel, and deer. He graduated from Calvert Sr. High School in 1965 and attended the American Institute in Washington, D.C. where he studied automated accounting. After graduating from the American Institute, he worked for the Maryland State Government in the payroll department until he was called to duty by the United States Army in 1967. He was trained as a combat medic and served in the Vietnam War campaign until he was called home to help take care of the farm after his father was seriously injured. He had held a passion for excavating the earth from a young boy through his adulthood. He watched the pond be-
ing built on the family farm and decided that’s what he wanted to do when he grew up and he did just that – he made his childhood dream a reality. He started his own company, Burkman Bros. Excavating, in 1973 and was in business with other members of the family for nearly 20 years. He then formed a company with his friend, Chris Franklin in the early 1990’s. He later worked as a foreman for the Raye Vest Corporation, Reliable Contracting, and most recently Facchina Construction of LaPlata, Maryland. He is survived by his wife of 39 years, Jeanine Michele Burkman. They were married on June 5, 1971, at Christ Episcopal Church, Port Republic, Maryland. He is also survived by his children, Patrick Burkman, age 32, and his wife Joanna, and Lisa Michele Solier , age 26, and her husband James. He also leaves behind his brothers, Leroy and James “Jimmy” Burkman and sisters Mildred “Cookie” Cronshaw and Margie Pilkins as well as numerous nieces and nephews. The family received friends on Tuesday, October 19, at the Rausch Funeral Home, P. A., 20 American Lane, Lusby, MD where a Memorial Service was held at 7:00 PM. Interment will be private. Bill will be greatly missed by his family and friends. In lieu of flowers the family requests that donations be made to the American College of Rheumatology Research and Education Foundation (www.rheumatology.org/REF), Make checks payable to: ACR Research and Education Foundation and send to: ACR REF, ATTN: Department of Development, 2200 Lake Boulevard NE, Atlanta, GA 30319. or any charitable organization in memory of Bill.
Ralph Day, 71 Ralph D. Day, age 71, was welcomed into eternal life with his Savior on October 12, 2010. Ralph was the founder and owner of American Insurance Marketing until this retirement in 2006 due to illness. He was a resident of Calvert County for 26 years. He is survived by his wife of 50 years, Delphine Dark Day and sons Kerry Day and wife Shari and Rod Day and wife Stephanie. He was also the proud grandfa-
ther of Kera, Kristen, Jessica, Tiffani, Ryan, Alyssa, and Olivia Day. He was a devoted husband, father and grandfather. Ralph was born on February, 10, 1939 in Fillmore, Utah, to Roy and Alma Day. As a young teenager he moved to Baton Rouge to live with his brother after his parents passed away. He worked at various jobs to support himself both in high school and college. He graduated high school from Baton Rouge High, and attended Louisiana State University where he met his future wife. They were married in November, 1960 and moved to Washington, DC, in 1961 to begin their professional careers. He founded American Insurance Marketing in 1976 after working for a number of insurance companies for several years. In addition to his professional work Ralph found time to be active in church ministry for most of his life; first at Kindle Baptist Church in D.C. and later as a Deacon and trustee at Bible Baptist Church and then at Riverdale Baptist Church. At this time of his death Ralph was a member of Church by the Chesapeake. The family received friends at the Church by the Chesapeake, Port Republic, from 10 to 11 AM on Monday October 18, 2010. Funeral services followed at the Church by the Chesapeake. Interment was at Chesapeake Highlands Memorial Gardens. The family requests that in lieu of flowers contributions be made to Church by the Chesapeake or to Calvert Hospice. The family wishes to express sincere gratitude and thanks to Dr. Mukesh Mathur of Prince Frederick and to Calvert Hospice for their wonderful care and support during our most difficult time.
Jerome Driver, 78 Jerome Morgan Driver (Jerry), of Bel Air passed away on October 16, 2010 after suffering cardiac arrest while playing golf. He was 78. Born on March 14, 1932, in Joppa, MD to the late William Daniel and Mary Cathleen Driver, he was also predeceased by one son, Benjamin Driver. Mr. Driver attended St. Stephen School and served in the Army as a Military Policeman during the Korean War. After serving as the store manager at Food Fair in Baltimore, Maryland he and his brother opened Butcher Boy in Waldorf, MD. In 1965 Mr. Driver bought Calvert Meats in Calvert County, MD and in 1974 Delta Meats in Delta, PA. He enjoyed providing his customers with top quality meats until he sold the company and retired in 1999. Jerry loved to sing and was an active participant in the St. Ignatius Catholic Church choir for many years, also singing as a member of the Harford Choral Society. He also loved fishing, hunting, golfing, dancing, wood working, wine making and fast cars. Jerry is survived by his loving wife of 54 years, Ann Ruff Driver of Bel Air, MD, as well as his children, Rebecca and husband Daniel O’Leary of Cheyenne, WY, William Driver and wife JoAnn, David Driver and wife Kimberly, Matthew Driver, all of Bel Air, MD, Daniel Driver and wife Mary of Jarrettsville, MD, Mark Driver and wife Kimberly of Darlington, MD, Patrick Driver of Pascagoula, MS, Cathleen Driver of Sarasota, FL and 13 grandchildren. He is also survived by his siblings; Mary Hope Mullen, Thomas H. Driver, Maude Elizabeth Taylor, and Cathleen Marie Lyon. Friends and Family honored Jerry’s life at the family owned and operated Evans Funeral Chapel & Cremation Services – Bel Air, where a visitation was held, Tuesday, October 19, 2010 from 6 – 9 PM, A Memorial Mass was held at, St. Ignatius Roman Catholic Church, 533 E. Jarrettsville Rd., Hickory on, Wednesday, October 20, 2010 beginning at 10 AM. Internment is private. Memorial contributions may be sent in Jerry’s name to the charity of your choice. Me-
morial tributes may be sent to
www.evansfuneralchapel. com. Clarence Monnett, Jr., 86
Port Republic location on October 8. A funeral service was held the next day on October 9th at 10:00 AM in the Rausch Funeral Home. Contributions may be made in Clarence’s name to Calvert Hospice, P.O. Box 838 Prince Frederick, MD 20676 and/or Calvert County Nursing Center, 85 Hospital Rd., Prince Frederick, MD 20678. Interment followed in Central Cemetery located in Prince Frederick, MD. Arrangements were provided by the Rausch Funeral Home, P.A. 4405 Broomes Island Road, Port Republic, MD 20676.
Baltimore. Arrangements provided by Raymond-Wood Funeral Home, Dunkirk.
Edward Stivers, 56
Eileen Speorl, 91
Clarence Edward Monnett, Jr., 86, of Prince Frederick, MD passed away peacefully October 6, 2010 at the Calvert County Nursing Center in Prince Frederick, MD. Clarence was born November 26, 1923 in Prince Frederick, MD to Clarence Edward Monnett, Sr. and Carrie Hodges Monnett. Clarence was a lifelong resident of Calvert County; he was born and raised on the family tobacco farm in Adelina, MD. As an adult Clarence spent 37 years as a school bus contractor. After all those years of driving he could remember most of all the kids he drove to school. In his spare time he would love to play cards with himself or with a group of people. Clarence was also an avid baseball fan and would love to get together with family and friends to watch the baseball games or just get together with them and spend some time. Clarence was preceded in death by his parents, and by two brothers Clifford Monnett and Hodges Monnett. He is survived by his wife Dorothy H. Monnett of Prince Frederick, MD and his son Larry E. Monnett of Richmond, VA, daughter Denise Valentino of Chester, VA., grandchildren Mark Valentino, Farrah Torres, Taylor Valentino, and two great grandchildren. He is also survived by his sister Mildred M. Bowen of Prince Frederick, MD. A viewing and visitation for Clarence Monnett was held in the Rausch Funeral Home, P.A.,
Eileen Mae Speorl, 91, of St. Leonard, MD died in Huntingtown on October 14, 2010. She was born on December 20, 1918 in Baltimore, MD to the late William and Myrtle McKnew Brown. She was a cosmetologist and had worked in retail sales. She had been very active in the Arlington Welcome Wagon, homemakers’ clubs and voting pools. She enjoyed trips to Ocean City, MD. She is survived by her sons, Jim and wife Carolyn Johnson of St. Leonard; Gerald and wife Frances Johnson of Millsboro, DE and Raymond and wife Nancy Johnson of Ocean View, DE; sister Barney Speorl of Chesapeake Beach, MD; 10 grandchildren and 17 great-grandchildren. Funeral Services were held on Tuesday, October 19, 2010 at Raymond-Wood Funeral Home. Rev. Daniel Leary of Jesus the Divine Word Catholic Church officiated. Interment followed at Loudon Park Cemetery in
Edward Eugene “Eddie” Stivers, 56, of Lusby, MD formerly of Fort Washington, MD passed away on October 18, 2010 at his residence. He was born on March 13, 1954 in Washington, DC to the late William Harrison Stivers, Jr. and the late Myrtle Virginia Thomas. Eddie loved growing up on a farm, working hard and entering his calves in the local 4 H competitions. He also loved learning, completing 13 years of school and only missing 1 ½ days. Upon graduating from Sherwood High School in 1972, Eddie enlisted in the Navy and was soon selected to attend Aviation Boatswain Mate Fuel School where he finished at the top of his class in 1973. He went on to receive many commendations for superior work while stationed in the South Pole (Antarctica) through December
1975 when he was transferred to Port Hueneme, CA. On March 25, 1976 just 12 days after his 22nd birthday, he was critically injured in a motor vehicle accident and left a quadriplegic. He was subsequently retired on disability and spent the next 34 years in the care of his mom, stepdad, and little sister Susan. He loved to laugh and it was contagious to those who were around him. His favorite saying was “you’re alright with me” with the thumbs up sign. In his day, he loved hunting, his Harley Davidson, and his friends and family. He became known as the man with 9 lives, proving just how tough he was, he didn’t know the word quit. Eddie is survived by his siblings Susan Wommack of Lusby, MD, Patty Faris of Centreville, MD, Nancy Reio and Brenda Dulaney both of Palm Coast, FL, Billy Stivers, III of Waldorf, MD, and Teresa Comfort of King George, VA, 13 nieces and nephews; 14 great nieces and nephews, and a special buddy and caregiver, Aden Gwinn. Pallbearers will be Russell Carpenter, Keith Faris, Kevin Wommack, Josh Leaman, Buster Morris, and R.J. Morris. The family received friends on Friday, October 22, 2010 in the Rausch Funeral Home Chapel, Lusby, MD. Funeral services were held on Saturday, October 23, 2010 at 11 AM in the funeral home chapel with Pastor Steve Fehrman officiating. Interment followed in Cedar Hill Cemetery, Suitland, MD. Memorial Contributions may be made in Eddie’s memory to the Tri-County Animal Shelter, 6707 Animal Shelter Road S, Hughesville, MD 20637 and / or to The Arbor Day Foundation, 100 Arbor Avenue, Nebraska City, NE 68410.
Where Life and Heritage are Celebrated
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410-326-9400
Thursday, October-2010
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Eric Rutherford
Business Services CLASSIFIEDS • Bookkeeping • Office Administration • Resume Writing
TREE FROG, LLC
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Real Estate
Estate sale in White Sands Subdivision. 2bed 2 bath log cabin. 1+ acres. Property sold as is. Tax Assessed Value for this year 2010 is $160,862. Best buy investment property or first time homebuyer. Call Karen @ 240.538.7499 or email us at WesAndKarenDodson@Gmail.Com
This Estate home sits on a peaceful cul-de-sac. It has 3 spacious Bedrooms and 2.5 bathrooms. Our ìDifferent by Designî home includes granite kitchen countertops, 9î ceiling, and luxury master bathroom with large walk-in closets. Many options to chose from. Call today for an appointment to tour this community. Home Builders, Inc. 240-725-0540
Real Estate Rentals
“We protect your investment” Shop: (410) 326-2662 Fax: (410) 326-2370
Spacious 5 Bedroom/3 Full Bath Split Foyer with Open Floor Plan. 3 Bedrooms/2 Full Baths on the main level and 2 Bedrooms with 1 full bath on the lower level. Upper Deck with steps to access the back yard. No showings on Saturdays. Owners in the Process of packing. Can be available as soon as needed. May use SMAR/MAR Lease Documentation. Listing Brokers office to run credit. 240-925-6390
12860 H.G. Trueman Road • Lusby, MD 20657 2 miles N. of Thomas Johnson Bridge
Employment
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Advertising Works! Place an Ad in Either our Business Directory or Restaurant Guide for as Low as Just $ 48
Gazette
Southern Calvert
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301-373-4125
Call now to make the next step on publicizing your business!
Thursday, October-2010
Must be a graduate from an accredited and approved professional nursing program with a minimum of 3 years experience in long-term care. Must be currently licensed and registered as an RN in the State of Maryland with previous experience in Quality Assurance, JCAHO, Utilizaiton Review, and related areas.Computer experience in Microsoft Word and Excel preferred Must possess ability to work well with others. A complete job description is available for review. To apply, please email resume to lyounger@ ccncmd.org. Busy marina in Solomons looking for weekend help. Desired candidate must be trustworthy and reliable, able to work well with customers, and multi-task Position may involve a wide variety of duties; grass cutting, maintenance, fuel dock, etc Applicant's must apply in person at Calvert Marina 14485 Dowell Road Dowell, MD 20629.
The Southern Calvert Gazette will not be held responsible for any ads omitted for any reason. The Southern Calvert Gazette reserves the right to edit or reject any classified ad not meeting the standards of The Southern Calvert Gazette. It is your responsiblity to check the ad on its first publication and call us if a mistake is found. We will correct your ad only if notified after the first day of the first publication ran. To Place a Classified Ad, please email your ad to: classifieds@somdpublishing.net or Call: 301-373-4125 or Fax: 301-373-4128 for a price quote. Office hours are: Monday thru Friday 8am - 4pm. The Southern County Gazette is published every other Thursday.
Dear Neighbor, We face a myriad of problems that our current state government has yet to solve:
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Jobs are the Issue Taxes are the Problem Spending is the Cause As your next state senator I will bring new leadership, new ideas, and new solutions to make our state and our community a better place to live and work. Learn more at
www.WAUGH2010.com “Steve Waugh is a Marine veteran, community leader, and family man who understands that Maryland must change course so families, retirees, and businesses can afford to stay in our state. This race is absolutely critical; I need Steve Waugh in the State Senate to lower taxes in order to create jobs and strengthen Maryland families.” —Governor BoB ehrlich
Authorized by Friends of Steve Waugh, Paul Croisetiere, Treasurer
Thursday, October-2010
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Out&About Saturday, Oct. 30
• Lost at Tiki Island Halloween Party Tiki Bar, Solomons Island – 7 p.m. - close Another great season ends for the Tiki Bar, but it is not saying goodbye without a fright. Join us for another epic Lost at Tiki Island Halloween Party! We promise to have plenty of red rum with our mai tai mix dripping all night at the bar for your drinking pleasure. The night is sure to be spectacular with the Charlie Bezilla Band playing live music and the Grill Sergeant BBQ serving its to-die-for eats. A cash prize will go to the Best Costume, Sexiest Costume, and Best Couples Costume. All proceeds for this intoxicating event will go towards the Solomons Charter Captains Association (SCCA). Cost $20 per ticket. Contact Joe Kurley, General Manager, (410) 326-4075.
Sunday, Oct. 31 • Monster Mash Cruise - 9th Annual Calvert Marine Museum, 14200 Solomons Island Road, Solomons 4:30-5:30 p.m. Special kids cruise aboard the Wm. B. Tennison. Wear a costume. An adult must accompany children. Reservations required. A fee is required to attend this event. 410-326-2042 • First Annual Monster Rockfish Festival Greenwell State Park (25450 Rosedale
Manor Lane, Hollywood) -11 a.m. The Greenwell Foundation will be hosting the first annual Rockfish Festival. There will be food provided from restaurants from the Greater Maryland area, live music, beer and local wine tasting and tours of Rosedale Manor. The Rockfish Festival is also a designated safe trick-or-treating zone. Halloween festivities will include a costume contest, pumpkin painting and a pre-carved pumpkin contest.
Tuesday, Nov. 2 • You Otter Know Calvert Marine Museum, 14200 Solomons Island Road, Solomons 1-4 p.m. No school, so come find out what You Otter Know! How much do you know about North American River Otters? Visit the museum and answer trivia questions about these animals and maybe learn a little more. Free with museum admission, fifteen-minute programs starting on the top of every hour from 1:00 p.m. - 4:00 p.m.
Wednesday, Nov. 3 • The Zen of Beading: A Comprehensive Series for Beginners Annmarie Garden (13480 Dowell Road, Solomons) – 6:30 p.m. A beginner’s course in beading for adults.
The six-class series costs $110 for members and $125 for non-members. The instructor will be Mickey Kunkle. People will learn the basics of bead stitched to form ropes and chains, among other things. Pre-registration is required. For more information, or to register, call 410-3264640 or visit www.annmariegarden.org. • Start to Art: Mommy & Me Toddler Class Annmarie Garden (13480 Dowell Road, Solomons) – 9 a.m. Come bond with your little Monet-in-themaking! In a parent/child class, celebrate the tactile process of making art while exploring art media, listening to music, and making new friends. Sign up for one class or all of them— Hurry! Space is limited. Pre-registration required. Call 410-326-4640 to register. For more information and a complete class schedule, visit www.annmariegarden.org.
Thursday, Nov. 4 • Facing Our Fences: Naming the Barriers Calvert Library, 850 Costley Way, Prince Frederick 7 pm. Naming the Barriers to Community. 7:00-8:30pm. Black Spaces/White Spaces. In a partnership of strong community-builders, the Calvert Library is hosting a series of conversations to promote understanding among Calvert’s diverse population. 410-535-0291 or 301-855-1862.
Friday, Nov. 5 • Raku Party-- A clay glazing/firing event! Annmarie Garden (13480 Dowell Road, Solomons) – 5 p.m. Grab your spouse, a friend, or your son or daughter and join us for a Raku Party! Learn about this unique and dramatic firing process as you glaze two bisque tiles and a small platter, then help fire them in a pit outside. Each couple comes away with three completed pieces. Adult couples or parent/child couples welcome. Children must be 8-up and must be accompanied by an adult. Pre-registration required; call 410-326-4640 to register today! Adult or parent/child couples welcome (Children must be 8-up and accompanied by an adult.) Member Cost: $70 per couple Nonmember Cost: $80 per couple. For more information and a complete schedule of classes, visit www.annmariegarden.org. • Quarter Madness - Vendor Quarter Auction Prince Frederick Volunteer Rescue Squad – 6 p.m. It’s a Quarter Madness Vendor Auction on Friday, November 5 at the Prince Frederick Volunteer Rescue Squad. Doors open at 6PM; auction begins at 7PM. Over 15 vendors offering a wide array of products. Most vendors will be offering “Winner’s Choice” where you winners can pick the item of their choice. Paddles are $3 each. Tentative list of vendors include Longaberger, Thirty One, Lia Sophia, Tastefully Simple, Scentsy, Blessings Unlimited, Celebrating Home, Pampered Chef, Stampin Up, Ditty Bug Designs, Premier Designs, handmade crafts, Dove Chocolate Dis-
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Thursday, October-2010
coveries, Mary Kay, Party Lite, and more! Lots of choices - tons of fun! Proceeds support the Prince Frederick Rescue Squad and Friends of Calvert Seniors. For information or to make reservations, call Melissa at 410-474-2958 or Julie at 443-532-7689.
Saturday, Nov. 6 • Ham & Oyster Dinner Waters Memorial UMC (5400 Mackall Road, St. Leonard) 4-7 p.m. Ham & Oyster Dinner at Waters Memorial UMC. Adults $15, Children 6-12 $6, Under 6 Free. Phone: 410-586-1716. • Puppetry for Toddlers: A Mommy & Me Adventure Annmarie Garden (13480 Dowell Road, Solomons) – 9:30 a.m. Come explore the world of puppetmaking through a fun storytime and simple art projects! Explore the world of drawing, painting, printmaking, and collage as you and your little one work together to create simple puppets based from popular children’s books. Hurry! Class size is limited. Program for children ages 2-4 is held the first Saturday of every month; Oct. 2, Nov. 5, Dec. 4. Member Cost: $10 per parent/child couple, per session. Nonmember Cost: $14 per parent/child couple, per session. Materials Fee: $3 due to instructor at class. Pre-registration required. Call 410-3264640 to register. For more information and a complete class schedule, visit www.annmariegarden.org.
Sunday, Nov. 7 • On Watch Memorial Service WWII Veterans Plaza, Dowell Road, Solomons - 2 p.m. Commemorate Solomons’ role in World War II at the annual On Watch Memorial Service for Veterans at 2:00 p.m. at the WWII Veterans Plaza. The service will be led by the American Legion Post 274; the program is sponsored by Northrop Grumman. The WWII Veteran’s Plaza is located at the end of Dowell Road on the Dowell Peninsula. Refreshments will follow the service.
Wednesday, Nov. 10 • Veterans’ Day Program Calvert Library, 850 Costley Way, Prince Frederick 7-9 pm. Join us to honor America’s veterans. Students representing each of the local high schools will be sharing highlights of interviews with military veterans. Learn why these men and women were willing to make such personal sacrifices for the sake of their country and freedom. 410-535-0291 or 301-855-1862
Monday, Nov. 15 • Calvert Eats Local Calvert Library, 850 Costley Way, Prince Frederick 7-8:30 p.m. Encourage local agriculture, discover ways to eat locally, and share resources, energy, good ideas, and great food!, 410-535-0291 or 301-855-1862.
On the
Water
Musings from the Museum By Sherrod Sturrock
T
he museum recently updated Maritime Hall at the Calvert Marine Museum. This was the first permanent exhibit to be installed in our “new” exhibition building in 1989; it was definitely time for an upgrade. What started as a project to redo the label rails morphed into our “Sears kitchen makeover”. We aren’t ripping everything out and starting over – don’t have the time nor money for that – but we have invested serious thought and effort to retell the story of human habitation along the Patuxent River in a more colorful and exciting way. New and larger text, new labels, and new video and audio components: an overall new “look and feel” makes the gallery more engaging. The “stuff” of collections is still there, but now it we personalize the story by highlighting the individuals who built the boats and fished the waters and fought the wars. Some are well known, such as Commodore Joshua Barney, hero of the Battle of St. Leonard Creek in 1814. Others are local heroes like Isaac Solomon who bought and named the island or M.M. Davis who ran a successful shipyard. Some are characters, like Captain Susie Brinsfield who tended the sails, worked on the yawl boat engine, kept the pumps working, and served as cook - and after her husband died, took over as captain of the schooner. And still others are virtually unknown and yet chime in to enrich the telling. During this process, we were determined to correct an omission – the African American story. With a grant, we developed a new exhibit that highlights “Slavery on the Patuxent.” In this small space, the modest goal is to weave this strand – the coming of African slaves, and the ultimate integration of free African Americans into the fabric of Southern Maryland life - into the story we are telling. And so, in addition to the moving dramatic reading from A narrative of the Life and Adventures of Charles Ball about his life as a slave in Maryland, we also highlight Captain Alexander Butler, a one-armed African American who owned and operated his own freight boat, and Joe Buck, the fastest shucker to ever grace the Lore Oyster House, and Sarah Gant who was born a slave in Calvert County in 1859 and lived to become one of the largest landowners in southern St. Mary’s County. The maritime gallery tells the people’s history – our history – of life along the Patuxent River from the days of the Patuxent natives to modern charter boat captains. Who knows, you may discover a picture of a relative smiling down from a forgotten photograph of a waterman, a boat racer, or a USO hostess during World War II. It happens. On Friday evening, November 5 – our regular First Free Friday event – we will be publically celebrating our newly renovated maritime gallery. We invite friends and family; we invite YOU to come and be a part of this celebration of community.
1st Annual Monster Rockfish Festival
T
he Greenwell Foundation presents the 1st Annual Monster Rockfish Festival on Sunday, Oct. 31, from 11am to 5pm at Greenwell State Park in Hollywood. The Festival is being held in conjunction with the first annual Monster Rockfish Tournament, taking place in the Maryland waters of the Chesapeake Bay and its tributaries on Saturday, Oct. 30. The tournament is a production of BAMM Enterprises in Lexington Park. Festival Highlights include the 1st Annual Rockfish Cook-off featuring restaurants from the greater Maryland area; Rockfish tastings and other seasonal culinary delights; Beer and local wine; Live music; Local crafters and artists will display and sell their work; Pony rides, and
horseback, fishing and kayaking demonstrations (weather permitting); Awards ceremony for Monster Rockfish Tournament participants. The Festival is a designated SAFE TRICK OR TREATING ZONE. Vendors will offer candy and other treats to children who come in costume. Other Halloween events will include pumpkin painting, costume contests, hay rides, and a pre-carved pumpkin contest (bring your carved pumpkin to the Festival for judging). The Festival is free to the general public ($3.00 parking fee applies). More information about the Festival, see www. greenwellfoundation.org. For more information about the Tournament, see www. monsterrockfishtournament.
Thursday, October-2010
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Fur and Feathers By Keith McGuire
I
detected movement through the leaves and branches some distance off. An ear, a leg, the flick of a tail gave the deer away. It was moving, and it was headed my way. The image cleared as the buck stepped out of the thicket, cautiously making his way, watching and feeding as he meandered along the well-used deer trail. He was big bodied and his antlers extended wider than the tips of his ears – at least eight points. As he passed under my stand he seemed totally unaware of my presence. In slow motion, I raised my muzzle-loader to firing position and found the animal in my scope just as he quartered away. I clicked off the safety and squeezed the trigger, aiming precisely behind the right front shoulder. When the dense smoke cleared and my hearing returned, I could see the animal lying on the forest floor no more than 20 yards from where he was when I pulled the trigger. Now the work begins. I carefully climbed down from my tree stand and cautiously approached the trophy, confirming that it was indeed dead. I prepared the field tag and attached it to the deer according to the procedures prescribed in Maryland regulations. (I use zip wire ties.) Easy enough, but too often forgotten. I moved the deer away from the area for field dressing and started the procedure according to a timeless process that was taught to me by my father; a process that is identical to the instructions in most Hunter Safety courses. I then took the field-dressed deer to my home where it could be hanged and rinsed thoroughly. I was able to rinse away most of the blood, leaving a clean
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Thursday, October-2010
carcass that can be handled correctly by the deer processor (PC-speak for butcher). Finally, I completed the check-in procedure online at www. gamecheck.dnr.state.md.us according to the regulations. (This can also be done by telephone at 1-888-800-0121.) All of this has to be done before the deer can be taken to the deer processor. Henry Stauffer of Custom Deer Processing at 27990 Point Lookout Road in Loveville says that three things will surely ruin the meat of a deer: 1) Stomach juices must be rinsed away immediately, along with any fecal matter, 2) Blood must also be rinsed away (blood turns rancid more quickly than any other part of the deer), and 3) Venison can spoil in less than 24 hours if not refrigerated, so finding cold storage for the carcass is imperative. Not removing the anus is the number one complaint of most deer processors. Some charge extra if they have to do it. The processor will want to see the completed field tag and butcher/taxidermy tag for the animal. If the deer was taken with archery, be sure to remove the broad head.
If you are unable to do this, make sure the processor knows so that he can take appropriate precautions when he’s cutting the meat. The processor will ask several questions about how you want the meat prepared. If you want to donate the animal to the Farmers and Hunters Feeding the Hungry program (www.fhfh.org), take your deer to Mike McWilliams on Indian Bridge Road (301-475-9667). You may donate all of the meat or just some of it, and you can keep antlers and hide for mounting if you desire. If it was a trophy animal that you want to have mounted, the processor will skin the deer so that the hide and head can be taken to a taxidermist. (One processor in the area will not skin your deer, but most others will.) Table fare begins with the shot. Good shot placement and correct handling of the carcass will assure a good package of venison for your family. I will be offering stories of hunting adventures in future articles for this column. If you have a particularly interesting story or a picture of a particularly impressive harvest, drop me an email at riverdancekeith@hotmail. com. Be safe and enjoy the season.
The Wanderers Going Strong Since 1962
T
he Wanderers, a local cover band, has been entertaining St. Mary’s, Charles and Calvert counties since 1962. The band will occasionally go out of the tri-county area, but they usually stick close to home, said Jerry Burch, guitarist, vocalist and the last of the original members still in the band. The first rehearsal for the band was in November of 1962, when Burch was still in high school. The rest of the original band members included Jimmy O’Neil, Billy Herbert, Wayne Barber and Paul Barber. O’Neil’s father, Earl, was the band’s first manager. In 1964, Burch and a couple of his other band mates broke off and formed a band called Misty Few. Burch said he reformed The Wanderers a few years later,
and he has had it ever since “with different members in and out.” The lineup for The Wanderers has seen a lot of changes since that first rehearsal. “We’ve had different people off and on over the years,” Burch said. He said that he’s the oldest member of the group and Ashley Walton, who joined the Wanderers about a year ago as a vocalist, is the youngest. “She’s a very good singer,” Burch said. Walton said she was invited to join the band after Burch saw her fill in with the band that her father plays in, Out of Order. “It’s a lot of fun,” Walton said. “They’re all great guys and I really love
singing with them.” The rest of the lineup includes Bernie Owens on keyboard and saxophone, David Copsey on drums and Doug Barthelow on bass. This lineup has been together for the past eight years. Owens and Burch have been playing together for about 20 years, Burch said. The Wanderers normally plays country and classic rock, but Burch said they dip into music from the 1950s and 60s if the venue calls for it. Burch said the success of the band is due to “the variety that we play.” That variety includes covers of songs like “Unchained Melody,” by the Righteous Bothers, “Great Balls of Fire,” by Jerry Lee Lewis, “Stop! In the Name of Love,” by The Supremes, and “A Broken Wing,” by Martina McBride. Kathy Owens, the wife of Bernie Owens, said the band often ends the night with “Goodnight, Sweetheart.” No matter what songs they play, the band keeps the mood in the room up beat. The band normally plays a four-hour session made up of three sets with two 15-minute breaks in between. The sets usually consist of 15 or 16 songs. Walton and Burch take turns on lead vocals, depending on the song. “We’ve opened for some pretty good acts,” Burch said. The musicians they have opened for include Ricochet and Hank
Williams Jr. The Wanderers plays a couple of engagements each weekend, Burch said, but the demand slacks off in November and December. One of the most recent gigs The Wanderers played was at a fundraiser at the Mechanicsville Moose Lodge for the Children’s Hospital in Washington, D.C. last Saturday night. “Out of all the bands, the most people dance to The Wanderers,” said Linda McKee, an attendee at the fundraiser. To prove that comment true, the dance floor in front of the stage at the Moose Lodge was never empty while The Wanderers were playing. The next place The Wanderers will play at is the Waldorf Elks Lodge at a Halloween Costume Party and Dance starting at 8 p.m. Oct. 30. The charge for that event is $14 per person or $24 per couple, which can be paid in advance or at the door. By Sarah Miller (CT) info@somdpublishing.net
Bernie Owens, left, Doug Barthelow, Ashley Walton, David Copsey and Jerry Burch at their performance at the Mechanicsville Moose Lodge Saturday night. The performance was part of a fundraiser for Children’s Hospital in Washington, D.C.
Thursday, October-2010
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Spider Hall Farm
Open until the first week of November Weekends 10:00 - 6:00 During the week, by appointment only
Every Sunday in October We Sell: Petting Zoo by Pony Express, Decorative Corn Stalks, Pumpkins, Deer from 1:00 - 4:00 Corn, Hay Bales, And Much More Great for birthday parties and school field trips. Hay Rides. Pumpkin Patch, Corn Maze Hosting the Farm Tour October 17th 1:00- 4:00. Corn maze: $5.00 Join Spider Hall for local crafts, refreshments, Hay rides: $5.00 live band The Unclouded Day, and much more! Combo: $8.00
410-610-0094
www.spiderhallfarm.com
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"Come be a part of Calvert County's Heritage"
Thursday, October-2010